Andean Falmingo - still pesent in Mejía

Andean Flamingo, Mejía Wetlands, 02.01.09. I have earlier posted photos of the same bird from November 2008.

We counted 140 Chilean Flamingos in the Wetlands at the end of December 2008. It is possible to see a group of Puna Ibis in the background.

Franklin's Gull - plumage variation

Franklin's Gull togheter with Elegant Tern. More than 10.000 Franklin's Gulls seen at the same time along the beaches in Mejía at the end of year 2008.

Could someone indicate the exact stage of each bird?

Somewhat different bill shape?

House Wren - some variation

(Southern) House Wren from the coast (Mejía), December 2008.

(Southern) House Wren from the Andes (Juliaca), December 2008; slightly bigger and warmer colours.

Yura area 27.12.08

Straight-billed Earthcreeper, I am not that close to often.

Straight-billed Earthcreeper

White-throated Earthcreeper, the somewhat strong bill and white throat can be used to separate this species from Plain-breasted Earthcreeper.

White-throated Earthcreeper

Colca valley, the pass 27.12.08

Vicuña

White-throated Sierra-Finch

White-throated Sierra-Finch

Plumbeous Sierra-Finch

We also saw some other good bird at this site, among others Diademed Sandpiper-Plover (three very shy birds) and White-winged Diuca-Finch.

Colca valley 26-27.12.08

Ash-breasted Sierra-Finch, it is a common but also a nice bird when it perches like this.

Mourning Sierra-Finch, this is one of the most common birds in the valley.

Yellow-billed Tit-Tyrant

A Chiguanco Thrush is finding something to eat.

Andean Condor, we did not get it any closer.

Black Metaltail, Colca Lodge 26.12.08

This endemic Black Metaltail shoved well in the garden.